Translating photobiology to electrophysiology: A brief overview of several photobiological processes with accent on electrophysiology

TL;DR

This paper reviews photobiological processes with a focus on electrophysiology, discussing mechanisms of visual perception, photon detection, and the influence of environmental factors, while highlighting future research directions.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview linking photobiology and electrophysiology, emphasizing mechanisms of photon perception and identifying new research avenues.

Findings

Photon absorption triggers ion currents in retinal cells.

Dark noise and temperature affect photoreceptor responses.

Polarized light perception has informational significance.

Abstract

The mini-review gives special attention to holistic approach and mechanisms of processes. The physical and chemical frames and background for visual perception and signalling are discussed. Perception of photons by retinal rod cells is described in more detail starting from photon absorption and culminating in ion currents. Dark noise and temperature-dependence of photoreceptor cells are analysed. Perception of polarised light, its effects and informational importance are discussed based on underlying mechanisms and specialised morphological structures of biological organisms. Role of statistics of photons in photoreception is questioned. The review also pinpoints new and developing directions and raises questions for the future research.